The military training course, known as Basic Special Operations Force Training Course, was conducted at the Rwanda Military Academy in Nasho, Kirehe District. The six-month training program, which is the second cohort of 2026, was aimed at enhancing the capabilities of the Central African Republic Armed Forces (FACA) soldiers. The training was provided by Rwandan military instructors and was attended by 254 soldiers, including officers and petty officers.
The closing ceremony of the training was presided over by the Chief of Defence Staff of the Rwanda Defence Forces (RDF), General Mubarakh Muganga, and his counterpart from the Central African Republic, General Zephirin Mamadou. Other senior military officials from both countries also attended the ceremony. The training was designed to equip FACA soldiers with the necessary skills and knowledge to operate in challenging environments.
The RDF Chief of Defence Staff commended the trainees for their hard work and dedication throughout the six-month training program. He encouraged them to continue upholding the professional standards they acquired during the training and to serve their country with patriotism. General Muganga also emphasized RDF's commitment to sharing its expertise with other armies in the region to promote peace, security, and stability in Africa.
General Zephirin Mamadou expressed his gratitude to the Government of Rwanda, RDF leadership, and instructors for providing the training. He noted that the skills and knowledge acquired by FACA soldiers during the training would enable them to perform their duties more effectively and contribute to maintaining security and stability in the Central African Republic.
One of the trainees, 2LT Christ Ngboundourou, said he is committed to applying the skills and knowledge acquired during the training to protect his country and the people of the Central African Republic. During the six-month training, the soldiers acquired advanced skills in various areas, including marksmanship, combat techniques, and survival skills.
The training program included modules on special operations, such as ambushes, raids, and reconnaissance. The soldiers also learned how to operate in diverse environments, including urban and rural areas. The training was tailored to meet the specific needs of FACA soldiers and was designed to enhance their capabilities in counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations.
The conclusion of the training program marks a significant milestone in the enhancement of FACA's capabilities and underscores the strong military cooperation between Rwanda and the Central African Republic. The training program demonstrates the commitment of both countries to promoting peace, security, and stability in the region through military cooperation and capacity building.
Key points
- The training program was aimed at enhancing the capabilities of FACA soldiers in special operations.
- The training was provided by Rwandan military instructors.
- The program underscores the strong military cooperation between Rwanda and the Central African Republic.
